Ghana is set to collaborate with Liberia to improve cocoa production through the Ghana Cocoa Board. President Mahama has highlighted the nations’ historical connections and proposed joint efforts to address regional security and enhance trade infrastructure. The partnership aims to bring mutual benefits to both countries in cocoa farming.
Ghana, recognized as the second-largest cocoa producer globally, is prepared to offer its knowledge and expertise to Liberia in enhancing cocoa production. President John Dramani Mahama has expressed his intention to collaborate with President Joseph Boakai of Liberia, discussing potential joint ventures aimed at modernizing cocoa farming techniques through the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
The announcement was made during a credential ceremony in Accra, where President Mahama received the new Liberian Ambassador to Ghana, Mrs. Musu Jatu Ruhle. He emphasized the wealth of experience that Ghana has accumulated through its Cocoa Research Institute, which has conducted extensive research on cocoa. The collaboration is expected to be beneficial for both nations, thereby strengthening economic ties.
Reflecting on the historical ties between the two nations, President Mahama noted that Liberia’s unique history of independence has fostered a strong bond. He reminded those present that Ghanaian soldiers played a significant role in restoring peace during the Liberian Civil War, further solidifying the deep connection between the two peoples.
The President also highlighted the shared experiences, particularly during times of conflict when many Liberians sought refuge in Ghana. He stressed their collective identity as members of the ECOWAS region, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration.
Addressing the issue of regional security, President Mahama touched upon recent concerns regarding terrorism in West Africa, particularly in the Alliance of Sahel States countries. He called for enhanced cooperation to combat this growing threat, likening it to a cancer that could potentially spread throughout the region.
Additionally, he advocated for infrastructure improvements, proposing that the ongoing Lagos-Abidjan corridor highway project be extended and the implementation of a ferry route from Monrovia to Lagos, Nigeria, to facilitate trade and movement within the subregion.
Ambassador Musu Jatu Ruhle congratulated President Mahama for his election victory in December 2024 and commended the peaceful conduct of the elections in Ghana. She relayed warm regards from the Liberian President and expressed eagerness to collaborate closely with Ghanaian leadership moving forward.
In conclusion, Ghana is poised to enhance cocoa production in Liberia through a proposed partnership involving the Ghana Cocoa Board. President Mahama highlighted the historical connection between the two nations and emphasized the importance of cooperative efforts, particularly in addressing regional security threats. The proposed infrastructural developments promise to bolster trade within West Africa, further strengthening the ties between Ghana and Liberia.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
